The concept of homeland and roots is a deeply personal and universally resonant theme that shapes our identities and influences our perceptions of the world around us. With this central idea in mind, Fabu Pires presents his exhibition Syncretism. The exhibition invites viewers on a journey of appreciation and awareness of the values and richness of multiculturalism, as well as the blending of cultural identities, through the evocative works of Pires, an inventive artist whose art transcends the boundaries of geography and tradition. In a unique way, this exhibition encourages reflection on deep questions surrounding diverse identities, cultural assimilation, otherness, and respect for ethnic differences—issues that the artist considers fundamental as Finland navigates sensitive debates around immigration and racism.

Pires explores the complex interplay between heritage and modernity through a captivating array of tapestries. Using woven threads, he embraces his Brazilian roots while connecting with Finnish influences to create a rich mosaic of interconnected themes. In addition to textile works, the exhibition features paintings that further expand on the artist’s exploration of cultural fusion, personal evolution, and the negotiation between local and cosmopolitan identities as both opposing and interconnected ideas.

Drawing on his experiences of migration and adaptation to Finnish culture and society, each piece in the exhibition serves as a window into the artist’s soul, revealing layers of symbolism and emotion. Fabu Pires demonstrates a unique ability to combine a wide array of elements: human figures, philosophical traditions, real and imagined fauna, nature and landscapes, as well as symbolic objects like talismans and other emblematic icons drawn from popular culture. The images depicted by Pires seem to be in constant flux, shifting focus from one detail to the next, thereby inviting viewers to contemplate the countless ways in which cultures merge and transform in both individual and collective consciousness.

Like a contemporary shaman or avant-garde artist, Pires finds himself ensnared in a visual web of influences, consequences, and sequels—one that only he can delineate and present to us in such an outstanding manner.